NAEYC Accreditation

Early childhood programs accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs have voluntarily undergone a comprehensive process of internal self-study, invited external professional review to verify compliance with the Academy's Criteria for High Quality Early Childhood Programs and been found to be in substantial compliance with the Criteria.  A copy of the Criteria can be obtained from the Academy.

What is a high quality early childhood program?

A high quality early childhood program provides a safe and nurturing environment while promoting the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of young children.

In accredited programs, you will see:

• Frequent, positive, warm interactions among adults and children
• Planned learning activities appropriate to children's age and development, such as block building, painting, stories, dress-up and active, outdoor play
• Specially trained teachers
• Enough adults to respond to individual children
• Many, varied age-appropriate materials
• A healthy and safe environment
• Nutritious meals and/or snacks
• Regular communication with parents who are welcome visitors at all times
• Effective administration
• Ongoing, systematic evaluation